Murali inspires win despite late Pak fightback: 1st ODI (Dambulla)

Sri Lanka took a 10 lead in the ODI series against Pakistan after winning the opening game by 36 runs in a tense finish as the Pakistan tail made a late fightback to almost snatch a win. Earlier Mohammad Aamer claimed three wickets but strong resistance from Mathews 43 and Murali 32 from 15 balls helped Sri Lanka to a competitive 2329. Pakistan were reduced to 695 before Gul 33 and Mohammad Aamer 23 put on a quickfire 62 for the 9th wicket. Murali took 246. 1st ODI Dambulla. July 2009